Episode 14:  Louisville social security disability attorney Trevor Smith discusses if peripheral neuropathy qualifies for SSDI benefits.  This condition is often associated with diabetes.  It can be extremely debilitating.

Peripheral neuropathy is related to nerve damage.  The symptoms can result in a constant numbness and/or tingling.  It generally affects the feet or hands.  Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition.  Medicine can be used to treat the symptoms, but for many people they don’t go away.

Testing for Neuropathy

Your disability case can go much better if there’s actual test results to back up your claim.  The judge will usually feel more comfortable when there is supporting evidence in the medical record.  There are 2 common tests Trevor sees performed.  An EMG is a nerve conduction study.  Another option is an exam performed by the doctor, similar to a diabetic foot exam. 

If you are sensing the onset of symptoms, you need to be directly with your doctor.  If you’re having trouble with your feet or hands, let him/her know and ask to be examined for neuropathy.  Again, you want to ensure there is medical evidence to support your disability claim.

Problems resulting from Neuropathy

This is a fairly common condition.  If you have a job requiring you to be on your feet a lot, the pain and related symptoms may prevent you from working a 40-hour week.  Jobs on an assembly line such as at Ford, UPS or other factory work are hard enough, even without neuropathy.

You may experience:

• Numbness, Tingling or a burning sensation in the feet or hands
• Difficulty standing for extended periods
• Loss of balance
• Pain in the feet and/or hands
• Muscle weakness

If you’re over 50 years of age, and have always worked on your feet, you may be able to get disability benefits.  The social security disability system uses a grid-rule.  Part of this calculation is based on your age.   

Neuropathy in the Hands

This situation can be extremely difficult for people to manage.  Neuropathy in the hands can impact gross manipulation (e.g. picking up a coffee cup or bottle).  It also affects your fine manipulation (i.e. buttoning buttons, working a keyboard, etc.).   Most jobs require the use of your hands.  Neuropathy can severely limit your ability to work.

Can Neuropathy Qualify for SSI Benefits?

In a previous episode, Trevor explained that he helps people with 2 social security programs, either SSDI or SSI.  Neuropathy is considered a medical disability.  Regardless of whether the person has a work history, he/she may still qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI benefits).

If you’re considering filing for social security disability or SSI, you can contact Smith and Wax at (502) 581-1133.  The website is www.SmithAndWaxLaw.com.

Important Disclaimers:  The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only.  It should not be construed as legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.  You should seek the advice of an attorney for guidance related to your specific situation.  This podcast maybe freely shared, but may not be the modified or edited in any way.  This is an attorney advertisement.  Principal office is located in Louisville, KY.  Co-host Jim Ray is a non-attorney spokesperson.